following Him

Tender mercy from the Lord! Seeing this mother waddling across the road with her flock in tow. Just as these little babies followed their mother off to safety we too should follow our Savior Jesus Christ into safety. 

 Just merely having faith in Jesus Christ is not enough. We must pattern our lives around His and become like Him!  " 'Come, follow me,' the Savior said. Then let us in his footsteps tread, For thus alone can we be one With God’s own loved, begotten Son." (Come Follow Me.)  So where do we start?! What do we do?

 "The restored gospel enables you to become like Heavenly Father and Jesus Christ. The Savior has shown the way. He has set the perfect example, and He commands us to become as He is (see 3 Nephi 27:27). Learn of Him and seek to incorporate His attributes into your life." (Preach My Gospel chapter 6)

He has many attributes that make Him unique and set Him apart. Among these are patience, charity and love, humility, diligence, hope, virtue, and many many others. It may seem like we can not become perfect in all of these aspects, but I know there is a way. The Lord would not command us to do things He didn't think we would be able to do.  As we pray for, seek out, learn about and apply each of these attributes we will indeed become more like our Savior.  We must not give up hope! We must not think its too hard, but remember that we "develop His attributes one action and decision at a time." (Preach my Gospel chapter 6)

broken liahona

Normally a Liahona is supposed to help someone get to where they are wanting to go. Yesterday my Liahona broke... causing the reverse of helping! Right in the middle of the road my bike chain snapped, almost sending me to the pavement, as cars were wizzing right up to me. I scrambled out of the road luckily not injured laughing at myself and my silliness.

In the Book of Mormon Lehi and his family find a "round ball of curious workmanship...within the ball were two spindles; and the one pointed the way whither we should go into the wilderness." The Lord provided them with their own ancient day GPS, or in other words a Liahona. Nephi observed however that "...the pointers which were in the ball, that they did work according to the faith and diligence and heed which we did give unto them...And there was also written upon them a new writing, which was plain to be read, which did give us understanding concerning the ways of the Lord; and it was written and changed from time to time, according to the faith and diligence which we gave unto it. And thus we see that by small means the Lord can bring about great things."(1 Nephi 16:10,28-29)

The Lord will always provide a way for our escape, whether from a semi-busy road, or from the falling city Jerusalem. By faith in Jesus Christ and diligence in keeping His commandments we are helped. We must do our part to recieve the promised blessings of Eternal life with our Heavenly Father and His Divine Son. "...for we know that it is by grace that we are saved, after all we can do." (2 Nephi 25:23)

turtle time

Sometimes we feel that we need to rush rush rush! We feel as if we always need something to do, to say, somewhere to go. This isn't truly making us happy is it? A few weeks ago as we rushed off to somehere we needed to be I just happened to spot a silly little turtle trying to cross the road. We stopped our dash and slowed down a little to enjoy the little things. As I continue to refelct on this I just keep learning so much from my slow and steady turtle friend. "Slow and steady" really does win the race.

In a recent talk by President Dieter F Uchtdorf he talked about what matters most. "...we would do well to slow down a little, proceed at the optimum speed for our circumstances, focus on the significant, lift up our eyes, and truly see the things that matter most." 

One of my favorite stories from the Book of Mormon is about the people of Ammon, called the Anti-Nehpi-Lehi's. They are a great example of remembering what matters most! They made special promises with God and received a mighty change of heart. Before this they loved war, but after, they buried their weapons of war, promising to not take them up again for any reason. "...they were firm, and would suffer even unto death rather than commit sin" (Alma 24:19)

"Strength comes not from frantic activity but from being settled on a firm foundation of truth and light. It comes from placing our attention and efforts on the basics of the restored gospel of Jesus Christ. It comes from paying attention to the divine things that matter most." (President Uchtdorf)

Our dear Prophet Thomas S. Monson asked us "What is important and what is trivial?" I invite you to look into your life and ask yourself this question. As we slow down and focus on what matters most I know that we will not miss the little things. By small and simple things are great things brought to pass!

spiritually sick

Recently I have not been feeling well. I have talked to lots of people and sought help for whatever seems to be wrong. I have tried all sorts of things to help relieve the pain and the discomfort I have. Although it is helpful and comforting for a time I haven't found that healing that I have been searching for. The pain sets back in and I am sent back into a reality of the truth around me.

There is a difference between comfort and healing. Some people may not be dealing with a physical sickness but they are spiritually sick. They try different  things in search for the healing they are so desperatly searching for. They only find comfort for a time. Then just like me they are sent back into their reality and start their search again.

I know that the healing they are searching for is only found in The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints! In King Benjamin's address to his people he says "...that there shall be no other name given nor any other way nor means whereby salvation can come unto the children of men, only in and through the name of Christ, the Lord Omnipotent." (Mosiah 3:17) The way to Salvation is by living by the teachings of Jesus Christ and following Him. His teaching and His doctrine are found in there true and fullest state in His restored church. Healing comes through Jesus Christ and the sacrifice He has made for us. He has felt what we have felt.

If you are searching or know someone that is searching for more meaning in their life then I invite you to come unto Christ. Learn of His restored gospel and allow His healing arms to wrap around you. I know that this is His Church and that there is no other way to receive the healing you are searching for. I have not felt this healing in any other place. I have started the steps to my healing and I encourage you to find the truth for yourself.

prayers of soy milk

Recently I have decided that I was going to switch to drinking Soy milk. Bad idea without trying it first! It is not very good. This morning right before eating my breakfast I prayed to Heavenly Father to make it taste better, and what do ya know it was a lot better then my first try. Prayers no matter how silly we think they are sometimes or how small are something special to our Heavnely Father. He answers our prayers because He loves us!

The great Book of Mormon prophet Nephi shares loads of experiences from his life on receiving answers to prayers. In 1 Nephi 2:16 he say's "having great desires to know of the mysteries of God, wherefore, I did cry unto the Lord; and behold he did visit me, and did soften my heart that I did believe all the words which had been spoken by my father..." I like Nephi didn't receive what I wanted just by sitting back and expecting Heavenly Father to just give it to me. We both prayed and asked for the things that we desired.

We need to not be afraid to ask our Heavenly Father for the things that we need, want, or desire. If He didnt want to help us, hear our cries, our stories and all about our lives... He wouldnt have taught us about prayer. President Henry B. Eyring stated "Every child of God can commune in prayer with Him." We are ALL children of God!

Prayer is how we ask.. and most often prayers are answered through other people. We have a special opportunity to hear from the Prophet and Apostles this weekend at General Conference. I have recently been reminded to "Think of questions [I] want answered during general conference. Write them down and pray to know the answers." (President Barry, mission president) 

I know that if we pray and seek for the answers we desire that we will receive them. President Dieter F. Uchtdorf promised blessings of receiving answers to these prays and said "Answers to your specific prayers may come directly from a particular talk or from a specific phrase. At other times answers may come in a seemingly unrelated word, phrase, or song. A heart filled with gratitude for the blessings of life and an earnest desire to hear and follow the words of counsel will prepare the way for personal revelation."

Prepare now! Ask for help direction, comfort whatever it may be. You will receive these answers as you watch conference this weekend with an open heart.

double testify

As missionaries we are placed with a teaching companion that we spend our every waking moment with. My memories of past and present companions are filled the good, the bad, and the unusual. Today I wanted to share an experience from my current companion, Sister McCracken. Knowing that I could not do it justice I asked her to share with you her experience from her side.

"I used to think I had it all together. I was sure I had life figured out. I was positive I was going to conquer the world. Then I realized I knew nothing, I didn’t have it together, and I hadn’t even conquered myself.

Isaiah knew I was in for a wake-up call when he said “For the day of the Lord of hosts shall be upon every one that is lifted up; and he shall be brought low.” (Isaiah 2:12) Recently I’ve been brought very low. I’ve been realizing my weaknesses one by one, and then 20 by 20, well that may be an exaggeration, but it feels like that. As painful as that is, I realized last night as I cried to my dear companion that it could become a good thing. She reminded me of the verse in Ether when the Lord says “And if men come unto me I will show unto them their weakness. I give unto men weakness that they may be humble; and my grace is sufficient for all men that humble themselves before me; for if they humble themselves before me, and have faith in me. Then will I make weak things become strong unto them.” (Ether 12:27)

But the thing is I have to humble myself for this to work. He cannot work upon me until I humble myself and ask for that help. And then there is the next difficult part of this process…Time. It takes time. It’s called a mighty change of heart for a reason. To me it seems like something mighty isn’t going to happen in the next ten minutes, ten hours, ten days, or maybe even ten years. Each case will be something different and will take a different amount of time, but it can be done. And the product will always be beautiful. Alma describes it as “… [Feeling] to sing the song of redeeming love…” (Alma 5:26). And I can testify that as I’ve slowly felt that change of heart, I have felt that way.  It is a painful process that has ripped me apart emotionally, mentally, physically, and even spiritually sometimes.  And it sometimes does feel like my heart is literally changing. (Anyone want to pay for an MRI to prove it?) But in all seriousness, today I’m just going to focus on humbling myself and let Heavenly Father do the rest." -Sister McCracken  

I am so grateful for my companion. We are learning together. Mighty changes are hard and we are both working to become more Christlike in all we do. It's hard because we have to look at ourselves from a different perspective. Look the way that our Heavenly Father or Jesus Christ would look. As we pray for this change and work with all our might to become better the Lord truly will make "our weak things become strong."

not my will

Round 15... unload the bikes and what do you know... my front tire is flat! Its been 6 long weeks of try after try to get my companion and I seated on bikes. First no bikes, then no bike rack for the car, then no hitch, then no bikes again etc etc. After this last attempt I finally gave in.. "Maybe we aren't supposed to ride bikes!" I had forgotten the phrase "Not my will but thine."

We forget in our desperate wants and desires to give in to the Lord and what He wants for us. We think it's all about us and what we want. It's not all give me, give me and then BAM it's at your door or in your mail box. Sometimes in these moments of self centered wishes we forget to ask the Lord. To talk to Him about what He thinks is the best option.

We should seek each day for the will of our Lord. Not always for the things that we want. Time, effort, emotions and sometimes money are saved when we, as my mom would say, "Do it right the first time, then you won't have to do it again." Neal A. Maxwell said  "As you submit your wills to God, you are giving Him the only thing you can actually give Him that is really yours to give. Don't wait too long to find the altar or to begin to place the gift of your wills upon it! No need to wait for a receipt; the Lord has His own special ways of acknowledging." 


  "... the burdens which were laid upon Alma and his brethren were made light; yea, the Lord did strengthen them that they could bear up their burdens with ease, and they did submit cheerfully and with patience to all the will of the Lord." (Mosiah 24:15) Lets pray a little harder and follow a little stronger the will of the Lord. In doing I know that our lives will be in harmony with our Heavenly Father. Like Alma I have seen happiness when I have submitted cheerfully. 

image in His countenance

The secret is out. I once had a bright red fohawk. During my time in hair school I tried lots of different things. I am crazy and a little odd I know. Those who knew me knew it was my personality. those who didn't, were a little taken back, some were scared and some were receiving the wrong message about me.

Shortly after cutting and coloring my hair a close church leader of mine talked to me about my choice. He told me that he didn't like the hairstyle and that it was sending the wrong message to people. That I was not the kind of girl that the hairstyle was portraying me to be.

Lately I have been thinking a lot about modesty and Virtue. We as children of our Father in Heaven think that we must "stand out" or be our own person. Like me, some people take extremes and do things that are a little crazy. I have noticed a lot of these trends or fashions lately. Women dressing immodestly,  men wearing their pants really low, extreme piercing and tattoo's to name just a few. When we realize that our bodies are sacred gifts from God we gain more self respect. "Know ye not that ye are the temple of God, and that the Spirit of God dwelleth in you?" (1 Corinthians 3:16)

Modesty in dress, grooming language and behavior refelcts our virtue. It also effects the way others stay virtuous. If we are dressing to "impress" the world then thoughts and actions are going to be taken out of control and spiral downward into a depth of sin and self disrespect. How often do things we do or say send the wrong message to those around us?

Elaine S. Dalton said “Virtue is a pattern of thought and behavior based on high moral standards. It encompasses chastity and moral purity. Virtue includes modesty—in thought, language, dress, and demeanor. Virtue provides an anchor on the path leading to our Heavenly Father’s presence. The paths of virtue lead to happiness in this life and in the life to come. The paths of virtue lead to strong families. The paths of virtue contain the foundation stones for the blessings of eternity. They lead to the temple.”

I know that each day we are sending message's to people in all things that we do. If we follow Jesus Christ and His gospel we should be sending messages of love and hope. We should be virtuous and modest. We need to show forth His light. I loved my crazy hair. I did not however like the things people thought about me and my hair. "I say unto you, can you look up, having the image of God engraven upon your countenances?" (Alma 5:19) Have you received His image in your Countenance?

power of the priesthood

Not many people know this but I am in love with the Priesthood. OK not necessarily in love but I am so grateful for the wondrous gift that it is to be on the earth when we have this authority. I get so excited when I study about it! I wanted to share with you some of the wonderful aspects of its beauty.

"True to the faith" a book I love, tells us that Heavenly Father gives His Priesthood to worthy men "so they can act in his name for the Salvation of His Children." But this unique blessing isn't just given to anyone that walks up and says "Hey I want this power." In Hebrews 5:4 it says "And no man taketh this ^ahonour unto himself, but he that is ^bcalled of God, as was ^cAaron." Worthy men belonging to The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints hold this Priesthood because it was restored through the Prophet Joseph Smith.

People often ask me if I am upset that I can not hold the Priesthood as a woman. I smile a little and tell them that I am not upset. This is the way that Heavenly Father intended it to be. But this morning it hit me in a new way as I studied. Another quote from "True to the Faith" that I really loved said "we all benefit from the influence of righteous priesthood leaders." This statement is so true! I have seen, heard, felt and loved the influence of the Priesthood in many ways. I don't have to "hold" the Priesthood to know its real or to have it bless my life.

Gordon B. Hinckley a late prophet of the Church said "The priesthood is here. It has been conferred upon us. We act in that authority. We speak as sons of God in the name of Jesus Christ and as holders of this divinely given endowment. We know, for we have seen, the power of this priesthood. We have seen the sick healed, the lame made to walk, and the coming of light and knowledge and understanding to those who have been in darkness.

  We have not acquired it through purchase or bargain. The Lord has given it to men who are considered worthy to receive it, regardless of station in life, the color of their skin, or the nation in which they live. It is the power and the authority to govern in the affairs of the kingdom of God. It is given only by ordination by the laying on of hands by those in authority to do so. The qualification for eligibility is obedience to the commandments of God.

   There is no power on the earth like it. Its authority extends beyond life, through the veil of death, to the eternities ahead. It is everlasting in its consequences."

I testify that the Priesthood is real! I have felt it countless times in many ways. I am so grateful for each of the men in my life that hold and honor their Priesthood! I am so thankful for a loving Father in Heaven that would allow this power to be on the earth for the Salvation of His children.

an inspired book

Recently I had the opportunity to see an old cherished friend. Someone that I love and care for very deeply. We learned together and we grew together. But this last visit just wasn't the same as they used to be. Heart broken and teary eyes I walked away wishing I could do more.

So what happened? What changed? When once we used to be so close and feel the warmth of the Spirit running deep in our veins. The answer is simple and so profound. She stopped reading the Book of Mormon. One of the biggest life changing events in our lives. Reading from it changes our lives just as much as letting it collect dust on our shelf's does. Elder David A. Bednar said "Regular reading of and talking about the Book of Mormon invite the power to resist temptation and to produce feelings of love within our families." I would be scared to see what would happen if I set my copy aside, the blessings that come from reading it can come from no other source. That is a promise given by the Prophet Joseph Smith, quoted in the introduction of the Book of Mormon. “I told the brethren that the Book of Mormon was the most correct of any book on earth, and the keystone of our religion, and a man would get nearer to God by abiding by its precepts, than by any other book.”

Dearest readers I know that the Book of Mormon is true. With it I am never in the dark. I will never stop soaking up the Spirit that just seems to ooze off its pages. I will defend and stand right next to this truly inspired work forever. "I testify that one cannot come to full faith in this latter-day work—and thereby find the fullest measure of peace and comfort in these, our times—until he or she embraces the divinity of the Book of Mormon and the Lord Jesus Christ, of whom it testifies." (Elder Jeffrey R. Holland) It was written for our day and our lives. It is the word of God!

choosing a flat

Last night we were driving to some appointments and somehow, somewhere I ran over glass. The light came on making me aware that there was a problem. I pulled over jumped out and to my surprise our tire was completely flat. We got to safety and quickly called for some reinforcements. Not wanting to waste more time than needed my companion and I began to change the tire. We must have looked like we were in distress, or maybe we looked like we didn't know what we were doing. Either way a man came to offer us some help. As this man took over, he began talking to us about somethings that made my companion and I very uncomfortable. Trying to be patient and bear witness to him of my testimony of Jesus Christ, I could tell that he was not interested and came at us with more harsh words. Glancing at the road and praying ever so desperately for the strength of the Lord I started to sing a hymn. "Do what is right; let the consequence follow. Battle for freedom in spirit and might;" (Hymns 237) Do what is right rang over and over in my head.  Although this man was trying to be nice and help us out, we thanked him and told him we could handle it. Peace once again filled my heart as he walked away.

The Spirit can act as our "warning light" when we are paying attention. If we hear the quiet promptings of the spirit we need to access our danger level and sometimes if necessary call for reinforcements. Sometimes we might be in a situation that may seem harmless or controlable. Just like this man. We were grateful for the help. However we did not know the "spiritual danger" he carried with him. We had to choose what was right. A good choice... allowing him to continue to help us. Or a better choice... asking him to leave and allowing the spirit to be with us. Dallin H Oaks said this about choices. "As we consider various choices, we should remember that it is not enough that something is good. Other choices are better, and still others are best. Even though a particular choice is more costly, its far greater value may make it the best choice of all."

I am most grateful for the Spirit that helped us to make the "better" choice. Not long after the tire was free our help arrived and we felt safe once again. As we listen to the "warning lights" we will be able to make better choices. We will be kept safe from danger and harm. I testify that the Lord loves us and He send His Spirit to help us make these choices.

being a missionary

I love being a missionary. It is my privilege to teach people every day about our Savior Jesus Christ, the Book of Mormon, The Restoration of the Gospel and many other wonderful things. I serve around some young men and women who love doing the same thing I love. Everyday we have the honor to wear the name of Jesus Christ on our chest and spread this powerful message!  I am so thankful to be where I am today!

Why, you might ask, am I so thankful for this wonderful calling? Because it changes people's lives. Hearts are changed and people come closer to our Lord, Jesus Christ. In a unique and special way I form a spiritual bond with people that I teach and work with everyday. It has changed me, and I know that the message that the missionaries teach can change anyone who is willing to listen.

How does this happen? Because we are teaching pure truth that can not be torn down by any person, thing, or argument. Because Jesus Christ is the leader of this great work and we do things His way. Because we teach from The Book of Mormon. It is another testament of Jesus Christ and we are the only Church that recognizes it as scripture. This book sets us apart and teaches true doctrine. "It puts forth the doctrines of the gospel, outlines the plan of salvation, and tells men what they must do to gain peace in this life and eternal salvation in the life to come." (Introduction)

I know the Promise at the close of the Book of Mormon is true! It has worked for me and I know it can work for you. "We invite all men everywhere to read the Book of Mormon, to ponder in their hearts the message it contains, and then to ask God, the Eternal Father, in the name of Christ if the book is true. Those who pursue this course and ask in faith will gain a testimony of its truth and divinity by the power of the Holy Ghost. (See Moroni 10:3–5.) Those who gain this divine witness from the Holy Spirit will also come to know by the same power that Jesus Christ is the Savior of the world, that Joseph Smith is his revelator and prophet in these last days, and that The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints is the Lord’s kingdom once again established on the earth, preparatory to the second coming of the Messiah."

Contact a missionary! Invite them into your home to teach you this life changing message! And if you have heard it before, if you are already a member. Share it with your friends and allow the Spirit of the Lord to work in their hearts.

Just moments ago we went to visit with someone we have been teaching. Her mood had changed, her smile was gone, and she quickly told us she was busy and didn't know when we could come back. As we drove away my heart was burning I was sad. As my companion and I sat in silence thinking to ourselves my mind tuned back into the song that was playing. "Have you ever felt like you are alone" I smiled really big looked at my companion, and started to laugh, knowing that the song was exactly what we needed at that moment. "There's one who knows you perfectly He can take the hurt away.." Loved filled the car and my mind reflected back to the Savior and the matchless love He has for us all.  The tender mercies of the Lord are all around us.

I talk about Jesus Christ all the time. I search for His guidance and I feast upon the scriptures that teach of Him because I love Him! But I never cease to learn more and more about His love and feel it stronger and stronger. I often think of the Testimony of the Living Prophets known as The Living Christ. "He gave His life to atone for the sins of all mankind. His was a great vicarious gift in behalf of all who would ever live upon the earth.We solemnly testify that His life, which is central to all human history, neither began in Bethlehem nor concluded on Calvary. He was the Firstborn of the Father, the Only Begotten Son in the flesh, the Redeemer of the world."

I add my witness to The Living Christ that our Savior lives! He knows me more than anyone. I feel His love as I read from the Book of Mormon, and the Bible. I feel His love as I serve others. I know who to turn to when things get hard, I know who to thank when I am blessed. Not only has He felt my pains and sicknesses but He has felt yours. He has felt the heartbreak and the lonliness. You are not alone, nor will you ever be. We are so blessed to have this kind of love in our lives. Turn to Him and allow Him to heal the hurt that you feel inside. "...after he is laid in a sepulchre for the space of three days he shall rise from the dead, with healing in his wings; and all those who shall believe on his name shall be saved in the kingdom of God. Wherefore, my soul delighteth to prophesy concerning him, for I have seen his day, and my heart doth magnify his holy name." (2 Nephi 25:13)

a test of faith

This morning we woke up to rain. On any normal day this would have been fine. But on this particular day we had decided to ride our bikes. You can call it stubbornness but I wouldn't settle for the warm dry car. When we first started riding the rain had stopped, we thought we would be fine. The further and further we got away from our car the rain slowly became worse. Head down and hands tightly gripped to my handle bars we pressed forward to our appointment. We could have turned back. We could have gotten back in the car and driven, but we had decided to ride.

We all face what seems like unachievable trials. James E Faust said “Everybody in this life has their challenges and difficulties. That is part of our mortal test. The reason for some of these trials cannot be readily understood except on the basis of faith and hope because there is often a larger purpose which we do not always understand. Peace comes through hope.” Peace comes through hope! I love that. What a beautiful thought.

There is always light at the end of the tunnel. As we press through these difficult tasks we need to stay positive and remember that our Savior is always there to support and help us! "Turn to the Lord. Exercise all of the faith you have in Him. Let Him share your burden. Allow His grace to lighten your load." ( Donald D. Hallstrom) I know that if we turn to the Lord He will lighten our load and make the things we are doing easy to bear. The rain beating on our faces wasn't as noticeable as we sang hymns peddling as fast as we could toward the warm home ahead. With faith we can do all things! But having faith doesn't mean that everything will be perfect. Alma a great Book of Mormon prophet explains faith in one of my favorite ways."And now as I said concerning faith—faith is not to have a perfect knowledge of things; therefore if ye have faith ye hope for things which are not seen, which are true." (Alma 32:21) Remember peace comes through hope? It truly does. 

I love my Savior and am so grateful that He is willing to help and support me in my trials. I could not make it another day if He wasn't there to lift and support me. He pulls me up off  feeble knees daily and helps me to know that I am not alone! I am never alone.

just like a rising sun

The other morning we walked out of our apartment to this beautiful Sunrise! It reminded me of a talk by Elder David A. Bednar last April.

He said "The gradual increase of light radiating from the rising sun is like receiving a message from God “line upon line, precept upon precept” (2 Nephi 28:30). Most frequently, revelation comes in small increments over time and is granted according to our desire, worthiness, and preparation. Such communications from Heavenly Father gradually and gently “distil upon [our souls] as the dews from heaven” (D&C 121:45). This pattern of revelation tends to be more common than rare..."

"Sometimes the spirit of revelation will operate immediately and intensely, other times subtly and gradually, and often so delicately you may not even consciously recognize it. But regardless of the pattern whereby this blessing is received, the light it provides will illuminate and enlarge your soul, enlighten your understanding (see Alma 5:7; 32:28), and direct and protect you and your family."

The Spirit of God is real! I have felt it in my own life and it has strengthened my testimony of Jesus Christ and His restored gospel. Most of the time the Spirit speaks to me and guides me just like Elder Bednar explains above. Although it may seem simple and little at the time I know that the results are beautiful and lasting! When I feel the Spirit teach me I can not go contrary to what I have learned!

– PRESIDENT JAMES E. FAUST

If you are seeking an answer to a prayer don't give up! There is hope in the future! When you receive the answer you are seeking nothing will separate you from that. Heavenly Father loves you and will send you His Spirit and it will most likely come just like a rising sun.

The Holy Ghost bears witness of the truth and impresses upon the soul the reality of God the Father and the Son Jesus Christ so deeply that no earthly power or authority can separate him from that knowledge.”

racing to repentance

So there I was flying down the race track at just over 100 mph, with the sun beating right down on me. Sweat dripping from my eye brow and the finish line just in reach I feel a jerk from something to my left and BAM.... I am sent back into reality. The race track faded and the noisy engines disappeared back into my imagination. Now faced with the real world I took off my stinky helmet and climbed out of the silent car.

Sometimes we find ourselves in imaginary worlds not ready or willing to face the reality and truth that is before us. We cover up sin, with rationalization or just by pure neglect to follow God's will. Whatever the case may be we send our minds into a universe that only we can see and hear. A place where we think no one can enter. Quentin L. Cook said, "Rationalization for bad choices will not be effective, but repentance will. Those who repent will be particularly blessed by the Atonement."

Repentance is real and it heals and blesses us as we allow Jesus Christ to come into our hearts. "And he hath power given unto him from the Father to redeem them from their sins because of repentance;" Helaman 5:11

Repentance is also hard. But I will be the first to tell you that it is worth it. Jesus Christ came to help us overcome our struggles and problems. The more I have turned to Him to allow Him to help me the closer I feel to Him. "Sincere repentance brings several results. We feel God’s forgiveness and His peace in our lives. Our guilt and sorrow are swept away. We feel the influence of the Spirit in greater abundance. And when we pass from this life, we will be more prepared to live with our Heavenly Father and His Son." (Preach My Gospel pg 62)

“Sometimes in our repentance, in our daily efforts to become more Christlike, we find ourselves repeatedly struggling with the same difficulties. As if we were climbing a tree-covered mountain, at times we don’t see our progress until we get closer to the top and look back from the high ridges. Don’t be discouraged. If you are striving and working to repent, you are in the process of repenting.”  Neil L. Andersen

Remove the rationalization, over come the pride and accept that Jesus Christ can heal you from the guilt and shame that you might feel in your life. I have felt it in my life and I pray that you will feel His love as you sincerely pray to be forgiven. I know that He can help! Step out of the race car and into the arms of the one who knows you and your trials far better then anyone else. Because He has been there and He knows how to help! "...and this that the word might be fulfilled which saith he will take upon him the pains and the sicknesses of his people...and he will take upon him their infirmities, that his bowels may be filled with mercy, according to the flesh, that he may know according to the flesh how to succor his people according to their infirmities." Alma 7:11-12

500 yards of all pool

Growing up I was on the Swimming team.  I learned a lot from those hours in the pool. I learned a lot about hard work and endurance. I remember one specific event during a competition. My coach put me in an event that I wasn't used to swimming. I had to swim the 500 yard freestyle. That is it is down and back 10 times. It was a long event and took a lot of strength.  At the end of the pool right before my flip turn a friend would hold a board in the water counting down my laps. Letting me know how much longer I had, at my last lap the numbers were gone and all I would see was bright orange flashing before my eyes. At that moment I knew I was so close to the end. I would pick up my speed work harder and sprint faster then any previous lap. During those previous laps I had to keep the speed not slow down and keep pushing forward to the finishing goal. As a swimmer I understood the great need of endurance not only in the pool but in my life. If we can not endure then we will give in to anything and anyone.

I often think of Jesus Christ and Joseph Smith when I think of great people who have endured a lot. But what about the stories that aren't as well known. Your trials that you have endured. My challenges that I have had to work through, and many other people who keep their personal endurance to themselves?  What makes it possible for us to endure through these times?

"George A. Smith once received counsel from the Prophet: 'He told me I should never get discouraged, whatever difficulties might surround me. If I was sunk in the lowest pit of Nova Scotia and all the Rocky Mountains piled on top of me, I ought not to be discouraged but hang on, exercise faith, and keep up good courage and I should come out on the top of the heap at last.'" (Overcoming adversity)

This is what it takes. Exercising faith and hanging on. Usually when we say that we can not do it any longer is about the time that things start to get better. In the event above, at about lap 8 I would think that I could go no further. But I wouldn't give up. I wouldn't stop and hang on to the edge of the pool. I fought through the tough times and I pushed a little harder. Just a few laps later it was over and I was sitting on the side of the pool.

 "He that endureth in faith shall overcome the world" (D&C 63:20, 47) One of my lifetime goals is to Live with our Father in Heaven and His son Jesus Christ again. I want to be surrounded by my family and friends. I endure everyday because I will not give up on this goal. "If they endure unto the end they shall be lifted up at the last day" (1 Ne. 13:37)

May we all endure a little more in faith. Sure it is hard but I know that Heavenly Father will help you and lift you as you endure. Lets not slow down and but keep pushing forward to the finishing goal.

living the doctrine

This morning as I studied my scriptures I kept thinking of all these silly little things that I do wrong. Things that I think "hold me back" from becoming my full potential. As I prayed for the strength to overcome these things I thought of the Doctrine of Jesus Christ.

The Doctrine of Jesus Christ is centered on the Atonement of Jesus Christ. As we focus on Him then we build our faith as our faith grows then we have a desire to repent of the things that we have done wrong. Which leads to Baptism for a remission of our sins and then the Gift of the Holy Ghost is placed upon us by the laying on of hands. Then we Endure. My "wheel" image of the Doctrine of Christ shows this cycle.

This morning As I was thinking about these silly little things I couldn't help myself from being so excited and happy. The Spirit of the Lord was teaching me in a new way. In a special way that was personal to me. I understood from that teaching that each and everyday that we live this Doctrine we are becoming better and better. Most people have big things that they need to fix and habits or sins that keep them from obeying God's commandments. But as we live the Doctrine of Christ those things become smaller and smaller. Our desires to do better increase and our bigger issues become smaller finer details. We go through this wheel and cycle until we are right where the Father needs us to be.

As I made a list of the things that I need to change to align my will with Our Father in Heavens I became thankful. I understood for probably the first time in my life how the Doctrine of Christ changes people. As I learned and grew from my experience I came to appreciate the love and sacrifice of Jesus Christ even more. If I don't feel rebuked or corrected everyday of my life then I am not living the Doctrine of Christ. If I am not living the Doctrine then I am not changing. If I am not changing then I am not becoming what I need to be. When I am corrected it means that my Father in Heaven loves me enough to help me become better. "As many as I love, I rebuke and chasten: be zealous therefore, and repent." Revelation 3:19.

Repent daily! Pray to our Father with an open heart! Be honest with Him and you will feel so much better with yourself. You will come to understand the real importance of having Jesus Christ in your life. "...will ye not now return unto me, and repent of your sins, and be converted, that I may heal you?" 3 Nephi 9:13.

oh deer

Thanksgiving morning we were part of a "special moving team." We were asked to help a member move one of his deer from one pen to another. Our job, in moving this sleeping doe, was to hold her head so that it wouldn't hit anything. Silly me let it slip right out of my hands. Luckily she was still OK. She was sound asleep and snoring like a baby. After we had her on the stretcher, we moved her from one pen to the next, while she lay there with no resistance.

I couldn't help but realize how easy and simple it was to help her into a better situation. She wasn't in danger, she wasn't harmed but we knew where she would be happier. Sure she may have struggled for a little while but once the "dart" set in, she was submissive and ready to be helped. Often times we are not this submissive. We may not be in harm, we may not be in danger but our Father in Heaven knows where we will be happier. Once we let the "dart" of humility set into our hearts then we allow Him to help us.

The Scriptures remind us over and over to be "...humble, and be submissive and gentle..." (Alma 7:13)

"I once owned a pen that I loved to use during my career as an airline captain. By simply turning the shaft, I could choose one of four colors. The pen did not complain when I wanted to use red ink instead of blue. ...With greatest reliability it performed every task I needed, no matter how important or insignificant. It was always ready to serve." (President Dieter F. Uchtdorf)

I have seen in my own life how being submissive and humble brings about greater blessings. As I have been ready to serve and given up my will and selfish wants for the greater happiness of my brothers and sisters I have seen my Savior's love in everything that I do. I have felt the blessings pour down from Heaven. We may not want to admit that we are being prideful, we may not want to say that we are doing what we want. But we need to step back and see if we are allowing our Savior to hold our heads and our Father in Heaven to move us to a happier place in this world. "Life is hard, but the Gospel is easy." (President Barry)

no beauty

When my mind gets going... there is no stopping it! The other day I was staring at flowers. They were so beautiful and just brilliant to look at. I caught myself staring and realized I had just gone off into a little dream world. I started thinking of how beautiful those precious flowers were, how easy it was for me to day dream and to love the delight that was sitting right in front of me.

It is so easy to love something that is beautiful. However it is not easy to love something that has no beauty. That is when it takes effort and a determination. Most of the time resulting in a deeper love and a stronger attachment. My mind remembered a scripture that talks about Jesus Christ "...and when we shall see him there is no beauty that we should desire him." (Mosiah 14:2) Although He had no beauty to desire, the things that He did for us are beautiful! "Surely he has borne our griefs, and carried our sorrows; yet we did esteem him stricken, smitten of God, and afflicted. But he was wounded for our transgressions, he was bruised for our iniquities; the chastisement of our peace was upon him; and with his stripes we are healed." (Mosiah 14:4-5)

I do not understand all that He went through. I will not ever know the pain that He felt. But to me it is beautiful. To me it makes my heart melt and my spirit rejoice. He is beautiful I have come to feel and see the beauty that radiates off His redeeming love. His beauty is much bigger then any I have ever seen or held. I can not wait for the day when He says to me "Arise and come forth unto me, that ye may thrust your hands into my side, and also that ye may feel the prints of the nails in my hands and in my feet..."(3 Nephi 11:14). He is my Savior. He is my brother and He is beautiful. On that sacred day will I rejoice for the testimony that I have. I will rejoice for the efforts I have done to keep His commandments and I will praise and adore at His feet.